HealthNet Medicaid plans blasted in Missouri

HealthNet just can't get a break this year. In California they have already been accused of breaking federal laws, defrauding seniors, and had to settle several times over various other accusations. Now in Missouri, HealthNet has been getting more than an earful about how bad their managed care system is. The complaints come as HealthNet bids to take over Medicaid plans in the southwest portion of the state.

In northern Missouri, many Medicaid plans have already been transitioned into managed care, and these were the people lining up to explain their problems. Healthcare providers, mental health workers and even parents lined up for hours to tell them how much it has cost them, how far they have had to travel, and how bad the medical care has been under the managed care program.

HealthNet has admitted that its transition process was far from perfect, but is sure that with their experience, they can transition southwest Missouri much more seamlessly. Too bad providers and patients aren't so sanguine about the prospects.

To learn more about the hearings:
- read this News Leader piece

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